Species Russet Sedge
brown spikelets with beige-green foliage and stems

Russet Sedge

Carex saxatilis

Also Known As - Rock Sedge
Russet Sedge is a light-green, grass-like perennial with a distinct reddish, bronze appearance. This ornamental grass is an easy-to-maintain herbaceous plant commonly found in woodland areas of Europe. It grows up to 30cm tall and prefers a damp, shady environment. Its evergreen foliage provides structure and height in gardens and is well suited to container planting, providing year-round interest. Its texture sets off other, bolder coloured plants and its bronze hue adds warmth to winter months. Its airy flowers produce abundant seed heads that provide bird-attracting food. This species will certainly bring an attractive woodland feel to your garden.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

full sun

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Russet Sedge should be watered once or twice weekly, depending on the season. During the warm summer months, water plants every 4 to 5 days to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely. Over-watering should be avoided, as this can cause root rot. During the cooler months, water every 10 to 14 days while allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between watering. Provide additional moisture when the temperature and humidity are low or when the plant's leaves become wilted. It is best to water Russet Sedge near the base of the plant to avoid causing fungal or bacterial diseases.

sunlight

Russet Sedge (Carex saxatilis) prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It is important to note that, as with most plants, too much direct sun can be detrimental to this plant. To prevent the leaves from scorching, it is best to provide some afternoon shade. When planted in an area with full sun, ensure adequate soil moisture so the plant can withstand the full intensity of the sun. Also, avoid planting in areas with reflected light, such as near surfaces that could reflect heat and sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

pruning

Russet Sedge (Carex saxatilis) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. This can be done by trimming the plant down to 4 inches from the ground, cutting back any dead foliage, and removing any damaged or dead foliage. This will help to encourage new growth and healthier plant growth. It is important to avoid cutting into the crown of the plant with pruning shears, as it may damage the plant’s structure. Pruning once a year is generally sufficient, but in areas of heavy snow, more frequent pruning may be necessary.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Carex saxatilis typically starts flowering in May.